A skilled young performer tells a story about Guangzhou's historic culture during the country fair held on April 22-23, Guangzhou. [Photo by Liang Wenxiang/southcn.com]

A Cantonese cultural carnival was celebrated on April 22-23 to protect the central area of the city's Yuexiu district and carry forward cultural traditions.

The faddish country fair, or Xu in Chinese, is a tradition dating back to the agriculture civilization of hundreds of years ago. It integrates trade, entertainment, and sightseeing by combining traditional trading forms with modern lifestyles.

A young girl focuses on carving pictures on an egg shell, a traditional handicraft in Guangzhou. [Photo by Huang Danyuan / Xinhua]

This year's fair includes four sessions themed on the four seasons of the year. "The ongoing spring-themed session highlights going green and environmental protection," said Hu Yingshan, head of the working group.

"We devised plant recognition and applique activities for children," Hu said. "The next session to be held in summer, themed on 'vitality', will see more interactive programs."

The caricature wall caught visitors' eyes. It offers a panoramic view of the scenic spots along the city's 2,000-year-old traditional axis, such as Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hall, Zhenhai Tower, Renmin Park, and Haizhu Square.

The event is also a platform for youth to engage in traditional culture, and inspires them to show their talents.

Peng Jiazhi, appearing with his disciples as the King of Storytellers, intrigued locals and tourists alike.

The country fair also provides a high-tech atmosphere in which visitors can scan the fair's QR code, download its app and listen to or watch videos of stories on their phones.

Hu said that the cultural gala will later be put on in colleges and high schools.

Mouth-watering traditional Cantonese dim sum is on sale at the country fair in Guangzhou. [Photo by Huang Danyuan / Xinhua]